Howard Keith Parsons

Keith lived a full and colorful life. Born in 1941 in Ripley, to Howard Otho and Ada Ellen Randolph Parsons, he was part of a close family that included two brothers and a sister.

Keith’s early endeavors included owning an automotive service station, and his love of cars led to his favorite hobby of drag racing. Keith’s racing success ultimately resulted in his 2015 induction into the West Virginia Drag Racing Hall of Fame.

Keith married Sharon Lee Garrett, the love of his life; they led a happy, wonderful marriage for 58 years. With the birth of their daughter, Amy Lee, Keith became a doting father in addition to a loving husband, roles he cherished more than any other.

Keith embarked on a long career as a salesman in the dental supplies and equipment field, which took him to Richmond, Virginia for 20 years before retiring to his home state of West Virginia.

When he wasn’t working, Keith loved his cars and took great pride in his beautifully kept lawn, and he could always enjoy a cup of coffee at Starbucks discussing either. It was, however, his family that always remained his greatest devotion.

Keith is survived by his daughter, Amy (Joe Imhof) of Rockville, Maryland; and a sister, Carolyn Sue (John) Balis, as well as many nieces and nephews and their spouses and children. He was predeceased by his wife, Sharon; and his brothers, Gairy and James.

Keith was a man who loved deeply and lived with integrity and humor. Known for his impeccable taste and gentle nature, he brought warmth to everyone he encountered. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness and dedication to all who knew him.

Funeral Services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Friday, December 27, 2024, at Stevens & Grass Funeral Home, Malden, with Pastor Richard Thompson officiating. Entombment will follow at Tyler Mountain Memory Gardens, Cross Lanes.

A visitation with family and friends will be held one hour prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org.